Applicators Including Non-Compliant Backer Members

ABSTRACT

A cosmetic applicator includes a compliant material having a durometer of less than 90 Shore A and a layer of relatively non-compliant backer material having a durometer greater than the compliant material attached to one side of the applicator. The backer material provides a predetermined force distribution over the compliant material when force is applied to the non-compliant backer material.

FIELD

The present disclosure is directed to applicators and, more particularly, to an applicator including a non-compliant backer member for topically applying a composition to a face.

BACKGROUND

Typical applicators for topically applying facial keratinous formulations (e.g., foundations) to skin and facial hair that are made of flat, die cut, expanded foam do not provide a smooth and continuous deposition of the composition on a face for the purposes of concealing facial skin imperfections and fine facial hair (e.g., vellus hair). These existing applicators typically have a rough, and often porous and absorbent flat surface, which do not allow for an even and smooth deposition. There is a need to maximize the effectiveness of these skin compositions (e.g., concealing benefits) with even and smooth facial deposition. A primary insufficiency of these existing applicators is in the ability to distribute the concentrated load that transitions through the compressible applicator structure from fingers to face. This can result in high pressure areas on the applicator and face opposite the finger tips used to control the applicator motion. This can result in a streaky finish on the face as product is rendered in highly compressed areas and absorbed in non-compressed areas. The phenomenon does not allow for preferred patterning and reservation of chemistry as the chemistry is being delivered to the face.

Also, these applicators do not offer the ability to manage a reservoir of keratinous formulation between the applicator surface and facial substrate and yet provide the desired even and smooth deposition. There is a need for applicator to be able to hold a reservoir of dispensed keratinous formulations in the dosing area and keep it from running before being applied to the face.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to solving one or more of these problems. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the present disclosure identifies materials, geometry, and methodology to address one or more of the problems.

The applicators described herein help to addresses the need of controlling deposition characteristics to provide a consistent and predictable distribution of chemistry on the skin. Backing members are provided to re-distribute chemistry in a predictable manner based on need and geometry and are less reliant on the user's skill or ability to position their fingers in such a way to achieve a desired effect. Controlling the distribution of chemistry is advantageous for a variety of conditions being treated including the need to cover imperfections, general evening of skin appearance through reduced contrast in hyper and hypo pigmentation and visible variation in topography, and the general need for re-distribution of low dose chemistries for blending over large areas with minimal product coverage by weight or film thickness. This need can be particularly desired in managing and concealing fine facial hair of a human female. Depending on the individual and exactly where on the face this hair is located, the hair may be vellus hair with shaft diameters ranging from 1 to 30 micrometers to darker terminal hair with shaft diameters typically larger than 30 micrometer to about 120 micrometers. Without wishing to be bound by theory, concealing this hair can be achieved by using the applicators described herein to smoothly and evenly applying a keratinous formulation to skin and hair, and concurrently laying down (i.e., flatten) the hair against the skin. Furthermore, results are maximized by stroking the applicator along the grain of the hair. Results may also be maximized by including chemistry in the keratinous formulation to further minimize the appearance the fine facial hair through opacity and maintaining the adhesion of hair to the skin.

In one embodiment, a cosmetic applicator includes a compliant material having a durometer of less than 90 Shore A and a layer of relatively non-compliant backer material having a durometer greater than the compliant material attached to a side of the applicator opposite an application surface. The backer material provides a predetermined force distribution over the compliant material when force is applied to the non-compliant backer material.

In another embodiment, a method of forming a cosmetic applicator is provided. The method includes connecting a non-compliant backer member comprising a relatively non-compliant material to a compliant applicator member comprising a relatively compliant material having a hardness of no more 90 Shore A thereby providing a predetermined force distribution over the compliant material when force is applied to the non-compliant backer member.

In another embodiment, a cosmetic applicator includes a compliant applicator member including a compliant material connected to a non-compliant backer member including a non-compliant backer material having a durometer greater than the compliant material. The non-compliant backer member provides a reservoir in the compliant applicator member configured to accumulate a keratinous formulation and/or foundation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of an embodiment of an applicator;

FIG. 2 is a side view of another embodiment of an applicator;

FIG. 3 is a top view of the applicator of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a top view of another embodiment of an applicator;

FIG. 5 is a top view of another embodiment of an applicator;

FIG. 6 is a side view of another embodiment of an applicator having a concave profile;

FIG. 7 is a top view of the applicator of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a side view of another embodiment of an applicator having a concave profile;

FIG. 9 is a top view of the applicator of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10A is a user topically using an applicator on her nose;

FIG. 10B is the user grabbing the applicator in a first position before using the applicator as shown in 10A;

FIG. 11A is a user topically using an on her nose;

FIG. 11B is the user grabbing the applicator in a second position before using the applicator as shown in FIG. 11A;

FIG. 12A is a user topically using an applicator on her cheek;

FIG. 12B is the user grabbing the applicator in a third position before using the applicator as shown in FIG. 12A;

FIG. 13A is a user topically using an applicator on her cheek;

FIG. 13B is showing the user grabbing the applicator in a fourth position before using the applicator as shown in FIG. 13A; and

FIG. 14 illustrates various deposition patterns using applicators.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments described herein are directed generally to applicators including a relatively compliant applicator member formed of a relatively compliant material and a relatively non-compliant backer member formed of a relatively non-compliant material connected to the relatively compliant applicator member. The compliant applicator member provides an application surface that is configured to make contact with a facial surface for application of a keratinous formulation to the facial surface and also for doctoring of the keratinous formulation from the facial surface in a predictable and repeatable fashion. As used herein, the term “keratinous formulation” refers to any composition suitable for application on the skin for impacting cosmetic, hair care and skin care compositions. The relatively non-compliant backer member is connected to the compliant applicator member to control a pressure profile applied to the facial surface using the compliant applicator member and/or to change a shape of the compliant applicator member from a generally flat, planar configuration to a three-dimensional configuration, such as having a concave profile. The compliant applicator member can conform to the shape profile of the more resolute contour of the relatively non-compliant member it is attached to.

Referring to FIG. 1, an applicator 10 includes a compliant applicator member 12 (e.g., having a hardness of less than 90 Shore A) and a non-compliant backer member 14 having a hardness that is greater than that of the compliant applicator member 12. As used herein, “hardness” is a measure of how resistant a material is to various kinds of permanent shape change when a compressive or flexural force is applied. The hardness of a material may be measured by any suitable method, such as in accordance with ASTM D2240. The compliant applicator member 12 includes an applicator surface 16 that is suitable for contacting a facial surface of a user and an opposite surface 18 that is suitable for connecting to the non-compliant backer member 14.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, absorbing materials alone, such as flat sponges, can exhibit several undesirable characteristics for (cosmetic/skin formulation and/or hair lay-down applications. Based on unpublished consumer research, some consumers feel that a portion of the keratinous formulation is being lost by being absorbed into the sponge and therefore not being completely dosed on to the skin. Also, absorbing materials alone may not provide even applications of keratinous formulation on to the facial substrate given the rough or non-smooth topical surface that absorptive materials typically have. However, sponges and open-cell foams can readily conform to a skin surface profile as it is passed over an area of the skin, which can be advantageous during application of a keratinous formulation.

To improve application characteristics of the compliant applicator member 12, the non-compliant backer member 14 is connected to the surface 18 that is opposite the applicator surface 18 of the compliant applicator member 12. The non-compliant backer member 14 is arranged and configured to improve the application characteristics of the compliant applicator member 12 by (a) controlling a pressure profile applied to the Skin and/or facial surface using the compliant applicator member, (b) imparting rigidity to selected areas of the compliant applicator member and/or (c) changing a shape of the compliant applicator member from a generally flat, planar configuration to a three-dimensional configuration, such as having a concave profile. While a compliant layer and a non-compliant layer is shown, more than two layers may be used to provide a variety of performance characteristics. For example, a relatively thin top layer comprising an open cell layer or flocked surface may be added to increase absorbance. A secondary and tertiary surface of increasing or decreasing rigidity may be added as backer materials to help dissipate forces to the application surface and create a softer feel on the fingertips in contact with the backer surface.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, an embodiment of an applicator 20 includes a compliant applicator member 22 and a non-compliant backer member 24 (FIG. 3). The compliant applicator member 22 has a generally rounded periphery 26 that is somewhat oval in shape; however, other shapes can be used, such as rectangular, circular, irregular, etc. The non-compliant backer member 24 is located within the periphery 26 of the compliant applicator member 22 and is connected to a surface 25 of the compliant applicator member 22. In some embodiments, one or more portions of the non-compliant backer member 24 may extend beyond the periphery 26 of the compliant applicator member 22. The non-compliant backer member 24 may also include a rounded periphery 28. In some embodiments, the shape of the periphery 28 of the non-compliant backer member 24 may extend along at least a portion of the periphery 26 of the compliant applicator member 22. The non-compliant backer member 24, however, may be any suitable shape, such as rectangular, circular, irregular, etc. The shape of the non-compliant backer member 24 may be selected, based at least in part, by the desired pressure profile or imparted rigidity of the overall applicator 20 during an application operation. In some embodiments, the non-compliant backer member may be larger in dimension (e.g., width) than the compliant applicator member 22 and/or extend beyond the periphery 26 of the compliant applicator member 22.

Referring particularly to FIG. 3, the non-compliant backer member 24 may include a first pressure region 30 and a second pressure region 32. The first pressure region 30 may generally include a greater surface area of the complaint applicator member 22 than the second pressure region 32. The first pressure region 30 may include a peripheral edge 34 that is part of the periphery 28 and an inner edge 36 that is part of a reservoir opening 38 formed in the non-compliant backer member 24. Connecting each end 46 and 48 of the first pressure region 30 is the second pressure region 32. The second pressure region 32 of the non-compliant backer member 24 includes a first connecting end 37 and a second connecting end 40, both ends 37 and 40 being connected to the first pressure region 30, forming a somewhat U-shape. The second pressure region 32 includes an inner edge 47 and a peripheral edge 49 that is a portion of the periphery 28. The first and second pressure regions 30 and 32 form a portion of the reservoir opening 38 that is located between the first and second pressure regions 30 and 32. The reservoir opening 38 is enclosed by the inner edges 36 and 47 of the first pressure region 30 and the second pressure region 32 and can provide a relatively soft area of the applicator 20 that forms a reservoir 44 for accumulation of a keratinous formulation. In some embodiments, the reservoir 44 may not be enclosed. The first and second pressure regions 30 and 32 can impede or limit accumulation of the keratinous formulation in their areas relative to the reservoir 44 due to the presence of the non-compliant material connected to the compliant applicator member 22 and guide the keratinous formulation to the reservoir 44 during movement or shear.

The first pressure region 30 can cover a relatively larger area of the surface 25 of the compliant applicator member 22 than the second pressure region 32. The first pressure region 30 can provide a finger purchase location where a user can place his or her fingers away from the reservoir 44 to apply pressure against the compliant applicator member 22 for an application operation. In the illustrated embodiment, the second pressure region 32 extends along, but is spaced from the periphery 26 of the compliant applicator member 22. In other embodiments, the second pressure region 32 may be located at and coextend with the periphery 26 of the compliant applicator member 22. The second pressure region 32 can increase the rigidity of the compliant applicator member 22 at the periphery 26, which can provide a doctoring edge 50 that can be used to remove excess keratinous formulation from the facial surface or other skin areas and apply pressure to hair against the facial surface or other skin areas during application.

The applicator surface 53 (FIG. 2) of the applicator 20 can include an absorbing material and/or a non-absorbing material, such as polyurethane, latex and olefin foams. The applicator 20 may include fibers, a felt, a fiber substrate such as a woven or non-woven fabric, a foam of ragged cells, flock surface, low durometer rubber or plastic, etc. The fibers may be bonded together, as in a woven or non-woven fabric, or non-bonded. The cells may be a cellular material such as a foam (felted, open or closed cell). The cells may communicate with one another in all directions when using an open-celled foam, for example. The applicator 20 may include cells, e.g. being constituted by a foam having cells that are open, semi-open, or closed.

In one embodiment, at least 10%, or 15%, 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, or 98%, or more of an outer surface area of the applicator comprises a non-absorbing and/or an absorbing surface. In another embodiment, less than 100%, or 98%, 95%, 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 25%, or 15%, or less; but greater than 10%, of the outer surface area of the applicator comprises an absorbing and/or a non-absorbing material. In yet another embodiment, 40% to 100%, such as from 50% to 100%, alternatively from 60% to 100%, alternatively combinations thereof, of the outer surface area of the applicator comprises an absorbing and/or a non-absorbing material.

In one embodiment, from 5% to 100%, such as from 10% to 100%, such as from 50% to 100%, alternatively from 25% to 75%, alternatively from 10% to 90%, alternatively from 80% to 100%, alternatively combinations thereof, by weight of the applicator 20 comprises an absorbing and/or a non-absorbing material. In yet another embodiment, the applicator 20 comprises 2, 3, 4, 5, or more different types of materials.

Another aspect provides for at least the applicator surface 53 of the applicator 20 configured to make contact with the keratinous surfaces (e.g., hair, skin, nails, etc.) to be comprised of a non-absorbing elastomeric material and/or an absorbing material that is smooth for even application of keratinous formulations to the keratinous surfaces. Yet another aspect provides for the material of the applicator 20, at least the applicator surface 50, to be washable to allow the user to clean the applicator 20 between one or more uses.

The material(s) comprising the applicator 20 can be injection molded, extruded or caste molded to form the applicator 20. These materials may be vulcanized, thermoformed, assembled and ultrasonic or heat welded or welded with adhesives, injection molded, extruded, die cut, cast, or combinations thereof.

The non-compliant backer member 24 may be formed of any suitable material having a hardness greater than that of the compliant applicator member 22 (e.g., greater than 90 Shore A). Exemplary materials include plastics, such as polyvinyl chloride, and metals, such as aluminum, stainless steel, etc. The non-compliant backer member 24 may be substantially planar or may be non-planar (e.g., concave), as will be described in greater detail below, to impart a curvature to the compliant applicator member 22. Any suitable thickness or thicknesses may be used to form the compliant applicator member 22. For example, the compliant applicator member 22 may have a thickness between about 0.04 inch and about 0.35 inch. Further, any suitable thickness or thicknesses may be used to form the non-compliant backer member 24. For example, the backer member may have a thickness between about 0.0015 inch and about 0.1 inch. The thickness may be substantially constant over the area of the non-compliant backer member 24 or the thickness may be different in certain areas. Any suitable process can be used for forming the non-compliant backer member 24, such as vacuum or injection molding, machining, die cutting, etc.

In some embodiments, the non-compliant backer member 24 may be formed with one or more heat stakes that can be heated to their softening or melting point to heat stake the non-compliant backer member 24 to the compliant applicator member 22. Other suitable connecting processes for connecting the non-compliant backer member 24 to the compliant applicator member 22 include adhesives, hook and loop fasteners, etc.

The applicator surface 53 may have an overall surface area from 25 cm² to 200 cm², such as from 30 cm² to 100 cm², such as from 35 cm² to 80 cm², alternatively from 40 cm² to 60 cm². During use, not the entire applicator surface 50 of the applicator 20 (configured to make contact with the skin/facial substrate, nails, hair etc.) will typically make contact with the keratinous substrate. The percentage of the one surface of the applicator making contact with the keratinous substrate will depend upon a number of variables including the user's preferences, contour of the face being treated, skin elasticity, and amount of composition being applied (at any given time). The size of the applicator 20 can be important. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the applicator 20 strikes a balance: in being small enough to provide a relatively compact design (for travel etc.) and suitable for use by the typical sized human female fingers (e.g., at least about 1 cm in diameter, such as at least about 2 cm); but large enough to facilitate easy application for larger skin substrate areas (e.g., cheeks), and maintain a user gripable surface away from the keratinous contact surface (avoiding unwanted contact and composition loss).

FIGS. 2 and 3 are an example of an even-weighted deposition design that delivers an evenly weighted deposition of a keratinous formulation across the width of the applicator 20 due to the size, shape and position of the reservoir 44. Referring to FIG. 4, a center-weighted deposition applicator 54 is illustrated that includes a compliant applicator member 56 and a non-compliant backer member 58. As above, the compliant applicator member 56 has a generally rounded periphery 60 that is somewhat oval in shape; however, other shapes can be used, such as rectangular, circular, irregular, etc. The non-compliant backer member 58 is located within the periphery 60 of the compliant applicator member 56 and is connected to a surface 62 of the compliant applicator member 56. The non-compliant backer member 58 may include a rounded periphery 64 in the shape of a C or horseshoe-shaped. In some embodiments, the shape of the periphery 64 of the non-compliant backer member 58 may extend along at least a portion of the periphery 60 of the compliant applicator member 56.

The non-compliant backer member 58 may include a first pressure region 66 and a second pressure region 68. The first pressure region 66 may generally include a greater surface area of the complaint applicator member 56 than the second pressure region 68. The first pressure region 66 may include a peripheral edge 70 that is part of the periphery 64 and an inner edge 72 that is part of a reservoir opening 74 formed by the non-compliant backer member 58. The second pressure region 68 of the non-compliant backer member 58 includes a first connecting end 76 and a second connecting end 78, both ends 76 and 78 being connected to the first pressure region 66, forming a somewhat C-shape. The first and second pressure regions 66 and 68 form a portion of the reservoir opening 74 that is located between the first and second pressure regions 66 and 68. The reservoir opening 74 can provide a relatively soft area of the applicator 54 that forms a reservoir 82 for accumulation of a keratinous formulation. The first and second pressure regions 66 and 68 can impede or limit accumulation of the keratinous formulation in their areas relative to the reservoir 82 due to the presence of the non-compliant material connected to the compliant applicator member 56 and guide the keratinous formulation to the reservoir 82.

Referring to FIG. 5, a side-weighted deposition applicator 90 is illustrated and includes a compliant applicator member 92 and a non-compliant backer member 94. The compliant applicator member 92 has a generally rounded periphery 96 that is somewhat oval in shape; however, other shapes can be used, such as rectangular, circular, irregular, etc. The non-compliant backer member 94 is located within the periphery 96 of the compliant applicator member 92 and is connected to a surface 98 of the compliant applicator member 92. The non-compliant backer member 94 may include a rounded periphery 100 that is somewhat oblong or football-shaped. In some embodiments, the shape of the periphery 100 of the non-compliant backer member 94 may extend along at least a portion of the periphery 96 of the compliant applicator member 92.

The non-compliant backer member 94 may include a solid, continuous pressure region 102. The pressure region 102 may include a peripheral edge 104 that is part of the periphery 100 that extends toward, but is spaced-apart from the periphery 96 of the compliant applicator member 92 thereby providing a relatively soft edge zone 104. The pressure region 102 can impede or limit accumulation of the keratinous formulation its area, pushing keratinous formulation to the periphery 96. Such a side-weighted arrangement can be useful for extending chemistries, such as moisturizers and bronzing lotions by spreading material to the periphery 96 with limited deposition directly under the non-compliant backer member 94.

FIGS. 2-5 illustrate use of relatively rigid and compliant zones to create pooling and/or doctoring zones. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, a non-planar, non-compliant backer member 110 may be used to form a non-planar applicator 112 having a concave applicator surface 114 (FIG. 6). The concavity of the applicator surface 114 creates a reservoir or void that will pool and doctor skin compositions. The applicator 112 includes a compliant applicator member 116 and the non-compliant backer member 110. The compliant applicator member 116 has a generally rounded periphery 120 that is somewhat oval in shape; however, other shapes can be used, such as rectangular, circular, irregular, etc. The non-compliant backer member 110 is located within the periphery 120 of the compliant applicator member 116 and is connected to a surface 122 of the compliant applicator member 116. The non-compliant backer member 110 may include a rounded periphery 124 that is somewhat oblong or oval-shaped. In some embodiments, the shape of the periphery 124 of the non-compliant backer member 110 may extend along at least a portion of the periphery 120 of the compliant applicator member 116.

In this embodiment, the non-compliant backer member 110 may be thermoformed to have a concave shape that forces the planar compliant applicator member 116 into a concave shape when bonded thereto. Thus, the applicator surface 114 of the applicator 112 configured to make contact with the hair, nail, skin or facial substrate is concave. In such an embodiment, the concave surface may have a surface area from 5 cm² to 100 cm², such as from 7 cm² to 50 cm², such as from 10 cm² to 30 cm². In one embodiment when the applicator surface 114 of the applicator 112 is concave, the concave applicator surface 114 is configured to provide a predetermined volume. This volume may be customized to show the user how much product to dispense during one application cycle. By making visually or tactile evidence of steel mold markings or printed or decorated areas on the surface or changes in geometry or material thickness changes, the applicator design or a portion of the design may be used to indicate to the user exactly how much keratinous formulation to dispense.

FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate suitable lengths, widths, and thicknesses of the applicator 112. The length of the applicator 112 is its longest dimension when placed along a horizontal plane 130 (e.g., a level table top). A center vertical axis 132, orthogonal to the horizontal plane 130, passes through a geometric center of the applicator 112. The width of the applicator 112 is measured perpendicular to its length along the same horizontal plane 130. In one embodiment, the length of the applicator 112 is from 45 mm to 70 mm, such as from 50 mm to 65 mm, such as from 55 mm to 60 mm The width of the applicator 112 is from 30 mm to 60 mm, such as from 35 mm to 55 mm, such as from 40 mm to 50 mm A thickness of the applicator 112 is from 0.5 mm to 5 mm, alternatively from 1 mm to 4 mm. In one embodiment, the thickness, measured at the center vertical axis 132, is from 1 mm to 4 mm, such as from 2 mm to 3.5 mm, such as from 3 mm to 4 mm In one embodiment, the thickness of the applicator 112 does not exceed 6 mm In another embodiment, the thickness does not exceed 5 mm. In another embodiment, the thickness does not exceed 4 mm The mass of the applicator 112 may be from 1.0 g to 500 g.

FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate an even-weighted distribution applicator. Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a center-weighted distribution applicator 140 includes a compliant applicator member 142 and a non-compliant backer member 144. The compliant applicator member 142 has a generally rounded periphery 146 that is somewhat oval in shape; however, other shapes can be used, such as rectangular, circular, irregular, etc. The non-compliant backer member 142 is located within the periphery 146 of the compliant applicator member 142 and is connected to a surface 148 of the compliant applicator member 142. The non-compliant backer member 144 may include a rounded periphery 150 having outer elongated portions 152 and 154 that are connected by a center portion 156. In some embodiments, the shape of the periphery 150 of the non-compliant backer member 142 may extend along at least a portion of the periphery 146 of the compliant applicator member 142. As above, the non-compliant backer member 144 is thermoformed to have a concave shape that forces the planar compliant applicator member 142 into a concave shape when bonded thereto. Thus, an applicator surface 158 of the applicator 140 configured to make contact with the skin or facial substrate is concave.

The keratinous formulation suitable for topical application to skin by the applicator may be essentially any dermatologically safe composition. In one embodiment, the composition contains one or more ingredients to soften hair (e.g., glycerol) to work in combination with the applicator to minimize the appearance of hair, preferably facial hair, preferably fine facial hair on a human female. Suitable application thicknesses may vary depending on the type of keratinous formulation. For example, thicknesses of at least about 1-20 μg/cm² of formulation on skin may be desirable for minimizing the appearance of facial hair. In another embodiment, the composition contains one or more ingredients to cover the fine facial hair such as foundation. The keratinous formulation can include both hair softening ingredients as well as hair or skin covering agents (e.g., pigments). While pigments may be used, an alternative composition is essentially free of pigments. In other embodiments, the pigment level may be normal or a reduced level of pigment may be used. Other ingredients may also be included in the composition such as a sunscreen agent or skin whitening agent. The keratinous formulation may not clog skin pores; is suitable for sensitive skin, and is dermatologically tested. In some embodiments, the keratinous formulation is a film forming composition to provide, in part, hair lay-down benefits. Film-forming compositions (e.g., MQ resins) are described in WO 97/17057 and WO 98/52515. Hair applications are described in U.S. Publication No. 2012/0269753.

In some embodiments, the keratinous formulation generally has a higher viscosity. Without wishing to be bound by a theory, a more viscous composition can provide better coverage or application to a face since it will not run as compared to less viscous compositions, thereby allowing more time for the composition to be applied by the user via the applicator and more time for the composition to be absorbed by the facial skin and fine facial hair. The applicators described herein can be suitable for applying such higher viscosity compositions. All stated viscosities in the present application are Brookfield viscosities, unless otherwise specified. Suitable Brookfield viscosity ranges for the keratinous formulation may include those from 100 centipoise (cps) to 200,000 cps, such as from 15,000 cps to 90,000 cps, such as from 15,000 cps to 60,000 cps, alternatively for a compliant applicator member having a 40 Shore A hardness ranges may include from 15,000 cps to 40,000 cps, and alternatively combinations thereof. One suitable way of measuring viscosity includes using a Brookfield RVT, Spindle C, in Heliopath mode, at 5 rotations per minute (RPM) spindle speed (and under ambient conditions). Without wishing to be bound by theory, the applicator surface of the applicator having a concave surface may help to retain the keratinous formulation while the user dispenses the composition onto the applicator surface. The concave applicator surface of the applicator can act as a reservoir during the use of the applicator so the keratinous formulation is applied more from the center of the applicator. This is in sharp contrast to some other applicators that act as a rectilinear squeegee moving the keratinous formulation to the either side of the applicator. This can lead to having more strokes of applicator by the user for application (increasing the time of application); and undesirably forcing the keratinous formulation to move in a direction inconsistent to the grain of the fine facial hair, thereby potentially leading to suboptimal hair lay-down results.

The viscosity of the keratinous formulation may have a significant impact on the effective coverage of the product on skin using the applicator. Low viscosity compositions used with a high Shore A applicator may not dispense as well from the applicator because the fluid may not develop sufficient fluid dynamic resistance to overcome the downward force of the applicator's trailing edge. Alternatively, high viscosity compositions, when used in combination with a low Shore A applicator, may result in uneven deposition due to the high level of fluid dynamic resistance and relatively low trailing edge force. In some embodiments, it is desirable for the keratinous formulation to have relatively low shear stress-shear thinning properties.

In one embodiment, the keratinous formulations that are used in combination with the applicator of the present disclosure have a viscosity which correlates to the hardness of the compliant applicator member. For a compliant applicator member with a 39 to 45 Shore A hardness, the keratinous formulation can have a viscosity of about 15,000 cps to 40,000 cps. Alternatively, for a compliant applicator member with a 55 to 60 Shore A hardness, the keratinous formulation can have a viscosity of about 68,000 cps to 90,000 cps. Alternatively, for a compliant applicator member with a 47 Shore A hardness, the keratinous formulation can have a viscosity of about 100 cps to 90,000 cps, such as, between about 15,000 cps to 90,000 cps.

The shear thinning behavior of the skin care formulation is also important for even deposition due to the fact application shear rates are >100s⁻¹ When used, the applicator is in motion, exerting a shear stress on the fluid. As a result, a velocity gradient may be exerted and high shear rates can be created due to the small gap thickness. A typical shear rate for “spreading” or “rubbing” may be >100 s⁻¹ and as a result, a shear thinning product can exert less resistance to spreading. Viscosities may be defined as a Brookfield Viscosity which is a common industrial method to quantify the structure of the fluid. Additionally, steady state flow curves using a TA instrument AR-G2 rheometer can be created by exerting the fluid to increasing shear stresses and measuring the resulting viscosity. As is common to those known in the field, the data can then fit to the constitutive Carreau Model to fit the data to a common shear rate (in this case 10 and 100 s⁻¹).

In addition, the durometer measured hardness of the compliant applicator material having the same geometry can be varied through composition to create a more ideal hardness of compliant applicator member for a particular product fluid viscosity. Specifically, with the oval geometry described herein, the compliant applicator member durometer hardness may be ranged from Shore A 20 to Shore A 90, such as Shore A 30 to Shore A 65 and specifically Shore A 39 to Shore A 59. By comparing material deposited with a plurality of compliant applicator member hardness's, all with the same geometry, it is possible to determine the ideal range of compliant applicator member hardness's for specific ranges of product viscosities.

Non-limiting examples of keratinous formulations that may be used in combination with the applicator of the present disclosure include: US 2005/0255059 A1, paragraph 202, examples 12 and 13; WO 97/17057; and US 2005/0238679. One non-limiting example of a composition comprises: 0.3-10 wt % (preferably 3-6 wt %) of a silicone resin (e.g., MQ resins (trimethylsiloxysilicate) and MQ resins blends from Dow Corning); 5-15 wt % (preferably 8-12 wt %) of glycerin; 2-10 wt % (preferably 4 to 8 wt %) of TiO₂ (e.g., TiO₂ coated talc or silicone treated TiO₂); and 30% to 70% water.

The applicator may be used to apply a keratinous formulation to a face using a variety of techniques. Based on Applicant's unpublished consumer research, many women are unsatisfied with known applicators (for various reasons) and will even resort to simply using their finger(s). Indeed, the human face has a complicated geometry. Areas around the nose need a relatively small applicator whereas a cheek is a relatively large area that lends itself to applicators that cover broader areas. Having an applicator that also is efficient, i.e., minimizes application time, is also desired by many women. Therefore, there is a need to provide an applicator, that not only that provides hair lay-down benefits, but also is adaptable to the complex geometry of the human face. Turning to FIGS. 10A and 10B, an applicator 160, formed as described above, lends itself to applying skin compositions to the relatively confining skin areas around the nose and around the eye 161 where more precise control is desirable. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 10B, the user may lay an index finger 162 along the major axis of the applicator 160 on a first surface 164 of the applicator 160 provided by the non-compliant backer member. The index finger 162 or fore finger is located between a user's middle finger 166 and thumb 168. The user may then roll the opposing edges of the minor axis of the applicator 160 by way of the middle finger 166 and the thumb 168 so the applicator 160 rolls at least partially around the index finger 162 and held in this position by pressure being exerted by the thumb 168 and middle finger 166 on to the applicator 160 against the index finger 162. The use of this configuration is shown in FIG. 10A where the user is essentially using her index finger 162 to apply the applicator to the area between the nose 170 and cheek 172, wherein the applicator surface 174 of the applicator 160 is making contact with the target facial skin.

The index finger 162 is typically not completely along the length of the applicator (i.e., along the major axis) as to allow some portion of the applicator surface 174 (shown in FIG. 11A) to make contact with the target skin area. This way, a portion of the applicator 160 can bend and conform around relatively confining areas of face (e.g., nose intersecting the cheek). Although not shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, there are a number of variations that within the scope of the methods described herein. For example, the index finger 162 may be along the minor axis of the applicator 160. Alternatively, the index finger 162 may be placed along the applicator surface 174. How much the index finger 162 goes across the major or minor axis of the applicator 160, and how much the applicator 160 rolls around the index finger 162 may be best left to the user's own preferences.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are directed to an alternative method. FIG. 11B demonstrates the user rolling the applicator 160 into a roll by pressing either side of the first surface 164 of the applicator 160 along the minor axis between the index finger 162 and the thumb 168 to form a pinched roll shape. The use of this configuration is shown in FIG. 11A where the user contacts the applicator surface 174 to the skin area between the nose 170 and the cheek 172.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are directed to a method that is likely best used for broader areas of the face such as cheeks 172. FIG. 12B illustrates the user's thumb 168 contacting the applicator surface 174, and the index finger 162 and the middle finger 166 contacting the first surface 164 of the applicator 160 essentially straddling the thumb 168. Pressure exerted between the index finger 162 and the middle finger 166, and that of the thumb 168 with the applicator 160 there between, holds the applicator 160 in place during use and generally provides a curved shape to the applicator 160. The fingers 162 and 166 are generally not along the entire major axis of the applicator 160, but rather, some area of the applicator 160 is left without contacting the fingers 162 and 166 to allow a portion of the circumferential edge of the applicator 160 to better follow the contours of the face during application. The use of this configuration is shown in FIG. 12A. The user grips the applicator 160 between her fingers 162 and 166 and thumb 168, and guides the applicator 160 along her cheek 172. It is the applicator surface 174 of the applicator 160 that is making contact with the skin of her cheek 172.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are directed to a method suitable for broader areas of the face such as cheeks. The user's thumb 168 contacts the applicator surface 174, and the index finger 162, the middle finger 166 and the ring finger 180 generally along the major axis of the applicator 160 contacting the first surface 164 of the applicator 160. The ring finger 180 is next to the middle finger 166. Pressure exerted between the index finger 162, middle finger 166, and ring finger 180 and that of the thumb 168 with the applicator 160 there between, holds the applicator 160 in place during use and generally provides a curved shape to the applicator 160. The fingers 162, 166 and 180 are generally not along the entire major axis of the applicator 160, but rather, some area of the applicator 160 is left without contacting the fingers 162, 166 and 180 to allow a portion of the circumferential edge of the applicator 160 to better following the contours of the face during application. The use of this configuration is shown in FIG. 13A. The user grips the applicator 160 between her three fingers 162, 166 and 180 and thumb 168, and guides the applicator 160 along her cheek 172. It is the applicator surface 172 that is making contact with the skin of her cheek 172.

A user can interchange between any one of these methods during a single facial application event. Further, orientation of the applicator can affect deposition of the keratinous formulation. Referring to FIG. 14, for example, applicators 200, 202 and 204 are illustrated depositing a keratinous formulation on a glass substrate 206. Applicators 200 and 202 are similar to that shown by FIG. 4 in that the non-compliant backer member 206, 208 is U-shaped, while applicator 204 is similar to that shown by FIG. 7 in that the applicator 204 is concave in shape where the non-compliant backer material 210 provides the compliant member 212 with a concave applicator surface. Arrow 214 illustrates the application direction for all of the applicators 200, 202 and 204. As can be seen, applicator 200 tends to provide a center-weighted deposition, while the orientation of applicator 202 tends to provide a side-weighted deposition. Applicator 204 tends to provide an even-weighted deposition.

A method is provided for topically applying cosmetic and skincare products, such as for hair minimization or hair lay-down benefits to a face, e.g., a human female face that includes the step of topically applying a composition, such as a film-forming composition, to the face by an applicator. In one embodiment, the method further includes the step of assessing a directional axis of facial hair growth; and where the step of topically applying the composition with the applicator is conducted along the assessed directional axis of the facial hair growth. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the hair minimization or hair lay-down benefit can be improved by such an approach.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to anything disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses anything claimed herein. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this description. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A cosmetic applicator comprising a compliant material having a durometer of less than 90 Shore A and a layer of relatively non-compliant backer material having a durometer greater than the compliant material attached to one side of the applicator; wherein the backer material provides a predetermined force distribution over the compliant material when force is applied to the non-compliant backer material.
 2. The cosmetic applicator of claim 1, wherein the compliant material forms a compliant applicator member and the non-compliant backer material forms a non-compliant backer member that is connected to a surface of the compliant applicator member.
 3. The cosmetic applicator of claim 2, wherein the non-compliant backer member extends over only a portion of the surface of the compliant applicator member.
 4. The cosmetic applicator of claim 2, wherein the non-compliant backer member includes a first pressure region and a second pressure region being of a different shape than the first pressure region.
 5. The cosmetic applicator of claim 4, wherein a reservoir opening is located between the first and second pressure regions.
 6. The cosmetic applicator of claim 2, wherein the compliant applicator member includes an applicator surface that is concave.
 7. The cosmetic applicator of claim 2, wherein the non-compliant backer member is non-planar and is connected to the compliant applicator member to provide the compliant applicator member with a concave shape.
 8. The cosmetic applicator of claim 1, wherein the compliant material comprises at least one of an open-celled foam, a closed-cell foam, a film, a non-woven, felted foam, a woven and flocked material.
 9. A method of forming a cosmetic applicator, comprising connecting a non-compliant backer member comprising a relatively non-compliant material to a compliant applicator member comprising a relatively compliant material having a hardness of no more 90 Shore A thereby providing a predetermined force distribution over the compliant material when force is applied to the non-compliant backer member.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the step of connecting the non-compliant backer member to the compliant applicator member includes positioning the non-compliant backer member over only a portion of a surface of the compliant applicator member.
 11. The method of claim 9 further comprising forming the non-compliant backer member to include a first pressure region and a second pressure region being of a different shape than the first pressure region.
 12. The method of claim 11 further comprising providing a reservoir opening in the non-compliant backer member located between the first and second pressure regions.
 13. The method of claim 9, wherein the step of connecting the non-compliant backer member to the compliant applicator member includes bending the compliant applicator member into a concave shape.
 14. The method of claim 9, wherein the compliant material comprises at least one of an open-celled foam, a closed-cell foam, a film, felted foam, a non-woven, a woven and flocked material.
 15. A cosmetic applicator comprising a compliant applicator member comprising a compliant material connected to a non-compliant backer member comprising a non-compliant backer material having a durometer greater than the compliant material, the non-compliant backer member providing a reservoir in the compliant applicator member configured to accumulate a keratinous formulation.
 16. The cosmetic applicator of claim 15, wherein the non-compliant backer member extends over only a portion of the surface of the compliant applicator member.
 17. The cosmetic applicator of claim 15, wherein the non-compliant backer member includes a first pressure region and a second pressure region being of a different shape than the first pressure region.
 18. The cosmetic applicator of claim 15, wherein the compliant applicator member includes an applicator surface that is concave.
 19. The cosmetic applicator of claim 15, wherein the non-compliant backer member is non-planar and is connected to the compliant applicator member to provide the compliant applicator member with a concave shape.
 20. The cosmetic applicator of claim 15, wherein the compliant material comprises at least one of an open-celled foam, a closed-cell foam, a film, felted foam, a non-woven, a woven and flocked material. 